World News

Marabout Who Took €33,500 to Secure Mali AFCON Win Nabbed for Fraud

Published by admin on January 13th, 2026.

Marabout Who Took €33,500 to Secure Mali AFCON Win Nabbed for Fraud

A self-styled traditional spiritualist who allegedly guaranteed Mali’s triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations in exchange for €33,500 has been arrested by authorities after the team failed to win the tournament.

Screenshot

The suspect, identified as Sinayogo, reportedly raised over 22 million CFA francs from supporters who believed his claims. Following Mali’s loss, furious individuals gathered at his residence, prompting police to step in and take him away for his safety.

He was arrested in Bamako on Saturday and is currently being detained by the cybercrime unit on allegations of fraud. Officials confirmed that impersonation and deceptive spiritual practices are criminal offences under Malian law, though they admitted action during the tournament would have been challenging due to heightened public emotions.

Sources familiar with the suspect revealed that he was previously involved in political activism before suddenly presenting himself as a marabout, a move that allegedly allowed him to profit significantly through social media influence and public trust.